Method and apparatus for endoscopically treating rectal prolapse
In one form of the invention, there is provided a method for treating rectal prolapse, the method comprising: inserting an expandable element into a prolapsed rectum via the anus; expanding the expandable element so that the expandable element securely engages the rectum; advancing the expanded element distally so as to return the prolapsed rectum to its normal, non-prolapsed state; and securing the rectum to supporting tissue whereby to retain the rectum in its normal, non-prolapsed state. In another form of the invention, there is provided an endoscope assembly for treating rectal prolapse, the endoscope assembly comprising: an endoscope; a balloon catheter; and a tacker; wherein the endoscope, balloon catheter and tacker are mounted together for insertion as a unit.
1. A method for treating rectal prolapse, the method comprising:
inserting an expandable element into a prolapsed rectum via the anus;
expanding the expandable element so that the expandable element securely engages and thereby grips the rectum;
advancing the expanded element distally so as to move the prolapsed rectum distally, thereby returning the prolapsed rectum to its normal, non-prolapsed position; and
securing the rectum to supporting tissue whereby to retain the rectum in its normal, non-prolapsed position.
2. A method according to claim 1 wherein the method comprises the additional steps of;
returning the expanded element to its contracted state; and
withdrawing the expandable element from the rectum via the anus.
3. A method according to claim 1 wherein the expandable element comprises a balloon.
4. A method according to claim 3 wherein the balloon is part of a balloon catheter.
5. A method according to claim 4 wherein the balloon catheter is slidably mounted to an endoscope.
6. A method according to claim 5 wherein the rectum is secured to supporting tissue with a tacker, and further wherein the tacker is slidably mounted to the endoscope.
7. A method according to claim 1 wherein the expandable element comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of a balloon, expandable arms and an expandable frame.
8. A method according to claim 1 wherein the expandable element is expanded with a fluid.
9. A method according to claim 1 wherein the rectum is secured to supporting tissue with a tacker.
10. A method according to claim 1 wherein the rectum is secured to supporting tissue with at least one selected from the group consisting of a tack and suture.
11. A method according to claim 10 wherein the tack is selected from the group consisting of shaft-type tacks, legged staples, multi-part fasteners, and tacks comprising a body having suture extending therefrom.
12. A method according to claim 1 wherein the tack consists of at least one substantially rigid element having a suture attached thereto.
13. A method according to claim 1 wherein the tack further comprises a securement band for securing the suture.
14. A method according to claim 1 wherein the rectum is secured to supporting tissue by suturing.
15. A method according to claim 1 wherein the rectum is secured to the presacral fascia.
16. A method according to claim 1 wherein the securement location is determined by identifying an anatomical landmark.
17. A method according to claim 16 wherein the anatomical landmark is determined from a location within the rectum.
18. A method according to claim 16 wherein the anatomical landmark is identified by an ultrasound probe disposed within the rectum.
19. A method according to claim 16 wherein the anatomical landmark is identified by an endoscope disposed within the rectum.
20. A method according to claim 16 wherein the anatomical landmark is the sacral promontory.